The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has welcomed the rescue of pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The association described the operation as a moment of thanksgiving. However, it urged the Federal Government to sustain efforts until every Nigerian still in the hands of kidnappers and terrorists regains freedom.
CAN thanks God for successful rescue
In a statement issued on Sunday, CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, thanked God for the safe return of the victims after 56 days in captivity.
He said the rescue brought relief to families who had endured weeks of anxiety.
“The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) joins the people of Oyo State and indeed all well-meaning Nigerians in thanking Almighty God for the safe rescue of the pupils, teachers and other victims abducted from schools in Oriire Local Government Area after 56 difficult days in captivity.”
He added:
“For the children who have returned, for the teachers who have been reunited with their families, and for parents whose tears have given way to joy, this is a day of profound gratitude. We give God all the glory for preserving their lives through an ordeal no child or teacher should ever experience.”
Association praises security agencies
CAN also commended President Bola Tinubu, the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies, the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, Amotekun Corps, local hunters and vigilantes for their roles in the rescue operation.
“The reports that the operation was guided by patience, credible intelligence and a determination to protect innocent lives are reassuring and deserve recognition.”
Okoh said every successful rescue shows what security agencies can achieve when they work together with professionalism and determination.
The association also praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for supporting the affected families. It welcomed his commitment to help rehabilitate the rescued pupils and teachers.
CAN calls for release of remaining captives
While celebrating the rescue, CAN said many Nigerians remain in captivity across different parts of the country.
“As encouraging as this development is, however, I find it difficult to celebrate without also thinking about other Nigerian families whose own story has not yet changed.”
The association said parents in Borno, Niger and other states continue to wait for the return of their children.
It stressed that every victim deserves equal attention regardless of location, ethnicity or religion.
CAN also urged governments, faith-based organisations and humanitarian groups to provide counselling, medical care and emotional support for the rescued victims.
“Our schools must once again become places of learning, not places of fear. No parent should have to choose between giving a child an education and keeping that child alive.”
What happens next?
CAN urged Nigerians to continue praying for those still in captivity and to support security agencies in their efforts. The association said the country would only celebrate fully when every abducted Nigerian regains freedom and communities become safe again.
